Tower Bridge
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The trail drops a thousand feet, which means you're climbing a thousand feet on the way back. At Bryce's 8,000-foot elevation, that return climb hits harder than it would at sea level — pace yourself and carry more water than you think you need.
Sandy switchbacks can be slippery on the descent, especially if you're in worn-out shoes. Proper hiking footwear with tread makes a real difference here.
Trail Details
- 1
Start early morning — you'll be hiking back uphill, and the afternoon sun on those exposed switchbacks turns a pleasant climb into a slog. A 7 AM start means you're back at the car before it heats up.
- 2
At the Tower Bridge junction, the spur trail is easy to miss if you're not paying attention. Watch for the signed fork about 1.5 miles in — veer left toward the formation rather than continuing on the Fairyland Loop.
- 3
The best photo angle of Tower Bridge is from slightly past the obvious viewpoint at the spur's end. Walk another thirty yards and look back — the arch frames against the sky instead of blending into the cliff behind it.
Photos
NPS Photo
